Maryland has miles of shoreline along the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers, and some of the best spots to fish do not cost a thing. Public piers across the state let you drop a line for rockfish, perch, and croaker, then stick around for a sunset over the water.
Whether you are new to fishing or have done it your whole life, these free piers make an easy afternoon or evening trip. Here are eight worth checking out, plus a few practical notes to help you plan.
1. Matapeake Fishing Pier, Stevensville, MD
Right on Kent Island, Matapeake gives you a wide-open view of the Chesapeake Bay with the Bay Bridge visible in the distance. The pier sits within Matapeake Park, run by Queen Anne’s County.
Anglers here go after striped bass, also called rockfish, along with white perch and spot depending on the season. The deeper Bay water off this stretch is a big reason the fishing stays consistent.
There is a sandy beach nearby and a popular off-leash dog beach, so the whole family can find something to do. Parking is available on site.
I like this spot for evening trips because the west-facing Bay puts the sunset right in front of you. Check current park rules and fishing license requirements before you go.
2. Sandy Point State Park Pier, Annapolis, MD
Few places give you a closer look at the Bay Bridge than Sandy Point State Park, just north of Annapolis. The park sits at the mouth of the Severn River where it meets the Chesapeake.
Fishing here draws people after rockfish, perch, and other Bay species, with shoreline and jetty access popular among regulars. The park is a well-known launching and fishing area on the western shore.
Along with fishing, Sandy Point has a sandy swimming beach, picnic areas, and plenty of open space for families. Note that Sandy Point charges a state park entrance fee, so this one is not free the way some others are.
Still, the views of ships passing under the bridge make it a memorable evening stop. Bring your license and check park hours ahead of time.
3. Choptank River Fishing Pier, Cambridge, MD
Built from a former bridge span, the Choptank River Fishing Pier stretches far out over the water on both sides of the river near Cambridge. That old-bridge design means you can walk well past the shoreline without a boat.
The pier is a favorite on the Eastern Shore for rockfish, white perch, croaker, and catfish, with the long reach putting you over productive water. It is open around the clock, which appeals to early risers and evening anglers alike.
Free parking, lighting, and restroom facilities make it easy to spend a few hours here. The pier is managed as part of the state park system.
With a wide-open western view down the Choptank, this is one of the better spots on the list to catch a sunset while you wait for a bite. A Maryland fishing license is required for most anglers.
4. Point Lookout State Park Pier, Scotland, MD
Way down at the southern tip of St. Mary’s County, Point Lookout sits where the Potomac River empties into the Chesapeake Bay. That meeting point creates strong fishing conditions across the seasons.
Anglers come for rockfish, spot, croaker, and bluefish, using the pier and causeway areas within the park. The mix of river and Bay water keeps the variety high.
Point Lookout is also a Civil War historic site, with a small museum and interpretive areas that give the trip an extra layer beyond the fishing. The park charges a service or entrance fee during peak season.
Because you are surrounded by water on almost every side, the sunset views here are hard to top. Verify fees, hours, and license rules before making the drive south.
5. Downs Memorial Park Pier, Pasadena, MD
Anne Arundel County packed a lot into Downs Park, and the fishing pier along the Bay shoreline is one of its highlights. The park sits on a bluff overlooking the Chesapeake in Pasadena.
The pier gives access to rockfish, perch, and other Bay species, with a shoreline setting that stays scenic all year. Miles of paved trails, playgrounds, and a dog beach round out the visit.
Downs Park charges a modest per-vehicle entrance fee, and it is closed on Tuesdays, so plan around that. Once inside, the amenities are well kept and family-friendly.
I would save this one for a full afternoon, since you can walk the trails, let the kids play, and finish at the water as the sun drops. Bring your fishing license and confirm current hours.
6. Fort Smallwood Park Pier, Pasadena, MD
Sitting at the point where the Patapsco River meets the Chesapeake Bay, Fort Smallwood Park has long been a go-to fishing spot near Baltimore. The waterfront location puts anglers close to moving fish.
People fish here for rockfish, perch, and seasonal Bay species, and the point is known as a productive area for casting. The park also has a boat ramp, trails, and open green space.
Fort Smallwood carries some history as an old coastal defense site, which adds character to the grounds. There may be a seasonal entrance fee, so check before you visit.
The wide water views make this a solid choice for an evening wind-down after work. Keep your license handy and review the park’s current rules and hours.
7. Romancoke Pier, Stevensville, MD
At the southern end of Kent Island, Romancoke Pier reaches out into Eastern Bay and offers a quieter alternative to the busier northern spots. The setting feels laid-back and open.
Anglers target rockfish, perch, croaker, and spot from this long county-managed pier. Its length gives you access to good depth without needing a boat.
Run by Queen Anne’s County, the pier has parking and a straightforward, no-frills layout that keeps the focus on fishing. It pairs well with a stop at nearby Matapeake if you want to hit two piers in one trip.
Facing west across the water, Romancoke lines up nicely for sunset watching. Confirm any pier permit details and bring your Maryland fishing license before heading out.
8. Breezy Point Fishing Pier, Chesapeake Beach, MD
Down in Calvert County, Breezy Point offers a Bay-front pier along with a beach and campground area near Chesapeake Beach. The spot has a relaxed, coastal feel.
Fishing here brings in rockfish, perch, croaker, and other seasonal Bay catches. The pier stretches out over the water and is a well-used local fishing destination.
Breezy Point typically charges a beach and pier access fee and operates seasonally, so it is worth checking hours and dates before driving out. The netted swimming beach makes it family-friendly in warmer months.
With the pier facing the open Bay, evenings here deliver a wide, unobstructed sunset. Make sure you have a valid fishing license and review current admission details before your visit.
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